Introduction

Baicalin is a flavonoid compound found in the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis, a plant commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. There is some evidence to suggest that baicalin may have anticancer properties. Several studies have investigated the potential anticancer effects of baicalin in vitro and in animal models. Baicalin has been found to inhibit the proliferation of various cancer cell lines, including lung, breast, liver, colon, and prostate cancer cells. It has also been shown to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells and to inhibit angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow and spread). In addition, baicalin has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may also contribute to its potential anticancer effects. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are known to promote the development and progression of cancer.

However, more research is needed to fully understand the anticancer effects of baicalin and its mechanisms of action. Clinical trials are also needed to determine whether baicalin has therapeutic potential for the treatment of cancer in humans. It is important to note that baicalin should not be used as a sole treatment for cancer, and patients should always consult with their healthcare provider before using any supplements or alternative treatments.

Methods

Fecal S9 fractions were prepared using feces collected from different types of rats at different ages with different genders. Baicalin, wogonoside, and luteolin-glucuronide were used as the substrates. A waters acquity performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) system was used to quantify the metabolite baicalein to analyze the rate of the reaction of the enzymes. The rates were compared by obtaining enzymes through S9 fractions to confirm microbiota ability to hydrolyze the glucuronide and release of the parent compound, baicalein. Fecal S9 prepared from The Fischer 344 (F344) rats at three different ages (i.e., 5, 9, and 16 weeks) and different inflammatory conditions treated with Docusate Sodium (DSS) or anti-inflammatory agent herbal mixture Xiao-Chai-Hu Tang (XCHT). Additionally, fecal S9 from genetically modified pirc rats, which spontaneously have inflammation in the colon, was also tested.

Results

The results depicted that age had an impact on hydrolysis of the compound baicalin into its parent compound and this method was best suited to determine the rate of hydrolysis. The p<0.05 making the results statistically significant. The wild type enzymes had a clear increase in Km and Vmax. While PRIC enzymes and enzymes treated with DSS and XCHT had a clear difference in rates, the Km and Vmax did not increase significantly. 

Conclusion

The data shows that microbial GUS activity was higher at elder age. Fecal S9 from Pirc rats has lower activity and anti-inflammatory agent XCHT can increase microbial GUS activity.